A performance is about entertainment. A relationship is about connection. When I give a presentation, I want the audience to feel entertained. I want them to enjoy our time together and I want them to remember it when we're finished. Does that mean I'm inauthentic?

When I give a presentation, I also like to make personal connections with the audience. It's my style, it's who I am. I make friends with the audience members before I even begin the presentation and cultivate that throughout the event. Does that mean I'm not a performer?

There are times when I'm not "up" for giving a presentation. Maybe I'm under the weather, or tired, or distracted. I still show up and give it all I've got, because the show must go on. That's a performance, baby.

Thinking of the presentation as a performance might contribute to some public speaking anxiety, while thinking of it as a conversation with friends might reduce some anxiety. Can you think of it as both? I can guarantee that you've had conversations with your friends where you've entertained them with jokes or funny stories. Connection/performance - why nitpick?

Do both. Give a performance while also building a relationship. It's really not that complicated and gives your presentation more depth. The performance and the relationship together are what get you invited back.

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I guess my basic philosophy is that people who are really, really on top of their game, technically, can "pass beyond" just performing and connect. If they're completely technically sorted out then they can't connect (as easily, at least) because they're working on the technicalities.

Earlier thoughts from me (such as they're worth) here in a blog article from way back....